What Exactly is a Worm Cocoon?

A single quarter with 3 washed ANC worm cocoons

African Nightcrawler worm cocoons are very small (~1/8″ in diameter, or about the height of two stacked quarters) and shaped like a lemon. Cocoons result from earthworms reproduction, and serve as a miniature incubation pod for the development and protection of embryonic worms. Each cocoon may hatch anywhere from 2 – 7 worms.

Known to have a rapidlife-cycle (cocoon to maturity), African Nightcrawlers (E. eugeniae) reach sexual maturity quickly compared to many other species, and will eagerly continue the ‘cycle of life’ by laying “eggs” of their own. See the table below for more information on ANC cocoons.

Benefits of Using Earthworm Cocoons

Worms that hatch from cocoons in their future soil environments experience less “shock” than worms removed and transferred from their “home turf”, and then introduced in to new environments. Plus:

What’s the Trade-off with Cocoons

The question usually goes something like this:

Should I start with live worms and buy African Nightcrawlers, or is it better to use worm cocoons?

While an excellent option for budget conscious growers and anyone who simply takes pride in being the ultimate do-it-yourself organic gardener, starting off with cocoons is a longer-term strategy for improving soil health, than if using live worms.

We recommend starting with cocoons if you’re able to plan ahead early, and built-in enough time for the worms to hatch, grow and start reproducing. When scheduling your project time-frame, be sure to consider your soil and weather conditions with the information in the table below.

Top 5 Reasons to Get Your Nightcrawler Cocoons from Rocky Mountain Worm Co.:

FAQ’s about Worm Cocoons

How do you use worm cocoons?

What is the best time of year to spread worm cocoons?

Best seasons for applying worm eggs:

Late Spring

Summer

Early Autumn/Fall

While you can successfully apply worm cocoons anytime of the year, we strongly recommend waiting until nighttime temperatures are above 32*F (above freezing) AND after your soil has been tilled or cultivated prior to spreading them over land.